($1,591) Cost of Moving From Ohio to California
Quick answer: When you’re moving from Ohio to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,781 and $9,991. Most moves take around seven–18 days. Keep in mind that your final cost can vary based on your home’s size, when you move, and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Ohio guide.
Our track record
The best Ohio to California full-service movers
Heading from Ohio to California? With so many moving companies out there, finding the perfect interstate mover can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the homework for you, narrowing down the top picks based on positive customer reviews, transparent pricing, and standout services.
Kick off your move to California with these leading long-distance moving companies that serve Ohio.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in Ohio
Finding a trustworthy local moving company can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in Ohio based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 5 out of 5 stars
- MVM Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Blue Men Moving LLC: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Leaders Moving & Storage Co.
rating
5 / 5
DOT #: 1237577
Years in Business: 30
7455 Alta View Blvd, Columbus, OH 43085Leaders Moving & Storage Co., serving the Columbus, OH area since 1995, specializes in local residential moves with a reputation that stands out among competitors. With an impressive 4.8 average rating from 1660 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are a trusted choice for many. Their comprehensive services include packing, unpacking, and office moving, ensuring a seamless experience. Unlike some local movers, Leaders Moving & Storage Co. accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making them a convenient option for your next local move.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1237577
- State license #: 00136562
Alternative Business Names
- Leaders Moving
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.
- L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co.
- Leaders Moving And Storage Company
MVM Moving & Storage
rating
4.86 / 5
DOT #: 1444491
Years in Business: 19
3979 Parkway Lane, Hilliard, OH 43026 USMVM Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in Hilliard, OH since 2007. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they clearly prioritize customer satisfaction. Unlike many nearby movers, MVM offers comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized handling of fragile items, ensuring a smooth and stress-free moving experience. Additionally, they can expertly move pianos, pool tables, and antiques, making them ideal for those with valuable or delicate items. They accept credit cards and require no deposit, setting them apart for convenience and reliability.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1444491
- State license #: 156647
Alternative Business Names
- MVM Columbus
- MVM Columbus Incorporated.
Blue Men Moving LLC
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 2462290
Years in Business: 13
7304 Tussing Rd, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068Blue Men Moving LLC, based in Reynoldsburg, OH, has been offering reliable local residential moving services since 2012. With impressive consumer reviews, including a 5.0 average rating on Google My Business from 342 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out as a reputable choice among local movers. Unlike many competitors, they require no deposit, providing added convenience for their clients. Additionally, Blue Men Moving LLC offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, ensuring a smooth and stress-free moving experience.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
Additional Information
Alternative Business Names
- Blue Men Moving Columbus
- Picktown Moving LLC
E.E. Ward Moving & Storage
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 1222904
Years in Business: 143
2235 Southwest Blvd Suite A, Grove City, OH 43123E.E. Ward Moving & Storage has been serving the Grove City, OH area since 1882, making it one of the oldest and most experienced local moving companies. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 from 288 Google reviews and a solid Yelp rating of 4.1 from 28 reviews, along with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, they are widely regarded as a reputable choice. In addition to local residential moving, they offer a range of services including long-distance moves, office relocations, and specialty moving services for items like pianos and antiques. E.E. Ward stands out from the competition with its comprehensive packing and crating services, no required deposit, and full valuation insurance coverage.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1222904
- State license #: 11470
Alternative Business Names
- E E Ward Moving & Storage Co LLC
- E.E.Ward Moving & Storage Co., LLC
Local Associations
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 2527384
Years in Business: 19
11807 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241 USTwo Men and a Truck offers local residential moving services in and around Cincinnati, OH, and has been a trusted name since 2005. While they boast an impressive 4.8 average rating from 574 Google reviews and hold an A rating with the Better Business Bureau, their Yelp profile shows a more mixed reception with a 2.7 average from 25 reviews. They provide packing and unpacking services and can handle special items like pianos and safes, setting them apart from many nearby competitors. The company accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making them a convenient and reliable option for local moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2527384
The best Ohio to California moving container companies
Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in Ohio and drops it off at your new home in California.
We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:
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The best Ohio to California moving truck rentals
Looking to cut costs on your move from Ohio to California? Consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind, you’ll handle all the packing, lifting, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for moving truck rentals:
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Ohio to California labor-only movers
If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that's the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.
For a smooth move from Ohio to California, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your OH to CA move
How much does it cost to move from Ohio to California?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Ohio to California. Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,591 - $6,656 | $1,532 - $4,122 | $1,679 - $3,117 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,554 - $9,991 | $2,722 - $6,119 | $1,781 - $3,711 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $9,081 - $15,157 | $3,704 - $7,747 | $2,295 - $4,502 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,404 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from Ohio to California
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Ohio to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,591 and $6,656. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,554 to $9,991 for the trip from OH to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $9,081 and $15,157.
Cost of moving containers from Ohio to California
When you’re heading from Ohio to California, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,532 and $4,122. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,722 and $6,119. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,704 to $7,747. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Ohio easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Ohio to California
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,679 to $3,117. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,781 to $3,711, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from Ohio to California costs around $2,295 to $4,502.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from OH to CA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Ohio to California. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
- Move size: The larger your home is, the more you’ll pay compared to moving a small studio apartment.
- Time of year: Prices tend to spike during summer, the busiest moving season in Ohio.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you effort and heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from OH to CA
When moving from Ohio to California, be sure to check out how your new state stacks up against your current one.
Cost of living: Ohio vs. California
Before you move, it’s smart to see how cost of living compares between Ohio and California. This quick, side-by-side breakdown covers essentials like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a better idea of how your budget might be affected. Check out how these two states stack up when it comes to cost of living:
| Ohio | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $945 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $230,798 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,990 | $91,905 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 5.4% |
| Average Sales Tax | 7.23% | 8.68% |
| State Income Tax | 3.5% | 13.3% |
- Rent in California is approximately 96% higher than in Ohio, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
- Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in California are usually around 234% higher than what you’ll find in Ohio.
- You’re likely to earn about 37% more in California than in Ohio. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
- Moving to California will cost you 43% more than living in Ohio, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
- Unemployment in California is about 50% higher than in Ohio. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
- Sales taxes are 20% higher in California than in Ohio, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- State income taxes in California are 280% higher than in Ohio, which means you'll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in California vs. Ohio
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in California stacks up against Ohio across important lifestyle factors:
| California | Ohio | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 11,785,935 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Republican 55-45 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 20ºF |
| Annual rain | 22" | 40" |
| Annual snow | 7" | 28" |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 20.76 |
- The population of California is approximately 231% greater than the population of Ohio. With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
- In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and Ohio voted Republican.
- The average high in the summertime in California is 87ºF and in Ohio, it’s 84ºF. When summer temperatures are comparable, you can expect a smooth seasonal transition, but still consider the humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs to get a full picture of what summer will really feel like in your new state.
- During the coldest part of the year, California reaches the temperature of 59ºF while Ohio gets down to 20ºF. A move to California with milder winters offers greater day-to-day convenience, lower costs, and more freedom to explore outdoors. It’s a great fit for those who prefer sun over snow and fewer weather-related interruptions.
- You can expect only about 22 inches of annual rainfall in California versus 40 inches of rainfall in Ohio. Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
- In California, it only snows about 7 inches annually while Ohio gets 28 inches of snow. Moving to California, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles, making it a great fit for those seeking a milder winter climate.
- California has a higher crime rate than Ohio with a crime index of 28.43 vs. 20.76. A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Ohio vs. California
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting. Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in California compared to Ohio.
| Pros of living in Ohio | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Ample economic opportunity |
| Low cost of living | Pleasant weather |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Abundant recreational options |
| Famously delicious beer | High quality of life |
| Amazing food | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Ohio vs. California
Moving from Ohio to California comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother.
| Cons of living in Ohio | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Low happiness | High cost of living |
| Limited diversity | Heavy tax burdens |
| Political division | Natural disasters |
| Harsh weather | Terrible traffic |
| Weird laws | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Ohio to California move
- Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
- HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
- Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: You can quickly check a California moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to California right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as "released value protection," at no extra cost. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in California
Get excited to explore California. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in California
- The Getty Center
- USS Midway Museum
- Hess Persson Estates
- California State Railroad Museum
- The Getty Villa
Parks in California
- La Jolla Cove
- Heisler Park
- Sonoma Plaza
- Mount Rubidoux Park
- Redwood Regional Park
Sports Teams in California
- Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
- San Jose Sharks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
- Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Universities in California
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of Southern California
- University of California, San Diego
